In addiction recovery, medical detox is only the first phase. Long after the acute symptoms subside, a condition known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome can present new challenges. Understanding PAWS, its causes, and how to manage its symptoms is critical for maintaining long-term recovery and avoiding relapse.
What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?
PAWS refers to a collection of psychological and mood-related symptoms that persist after the initial withdrawal period has ended. These can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Trouble concentrating
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
Unpredictability makes PAWS particularly challenging. Symptoms often appear in cycles, with each episode lasting several days. While PAWS is not currently an official medical diagnosis, many addiction experts agree that it is a complex condition influenced by various factors.
Why Does PAWS Happen?
While the medical community has not reached a consensus on the precise causes of PAWS, two factors likely influence this condition.
- Brain chemistry: Prolonged substance use alters how your brain’s reward and pleasure centers function. Addiction disrupts the normal production and regulation of neurotransmitters, the chemicals responsible for transmitting signals between neurons. After stopping substance use, the brain struggles to achieve equilibrium, which can lead to mood swings, cravings, and other symptoms associated with PAWS.
- Habit and lifestyle: If substance use was formerly part of your daily routine, it can be hard to fill your time in sobriety. When drugs or alcohol are no longer present, the absence of the habit can leave a void. You may struggle to find new ways to structure your life, leading to feelings of boredom, depression, or cravings.
Treating Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
The growing recognition of PAWS has highlighted the need for more research into its causes and effective treatments. In the meantime, you must address your emotional and psychological symptoms.
- Therapy and counseling: Because PAWS symptoms are primarily emotional and mood-related, ongoing support from a therapist or counselor is crucial. Individual and group therapy sessions can help you process your feelings, develop healthy coping mechanisms, identify and avoid triggers, and address co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety.
- Healthy lifestyle changes: Creating a balanced, structured routine can fill the void left by addiction. Activities such as exercise, mindfulness practices, and engaging in hobbies can improve mental well-being and reduce the impact of PAWS symptoms.
- Support networks: Joining a recovery community can provide encouragement, accountability, and fellowship. Connecting with others who understand your struggles can make it easier to handle the ups and downs of recovery.
A Path to Healing
PAWS is a reminder that recovery is a journey, not a destination. The lingering symptoms of post-acute withdrawal can be challenging, but they are not insurmountable. It is possible to overcome PAWS and build a fulfilling, sober life.
NEM Recovery understands the complexities of substance abuse and the challenges of long-term sobriety. Our comprehensive programs provide the ongoing care and attention you need to address PAWS and achieve lasting wellness. If you struggle with substance misuse or its lingering effects, contact us today to discover a life beyond addiction.
